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Background levels of male DNA in the vaginal cavity

Abstract

In alleged sexual assault investigations, the detection of male DNA on female intimate swabs can be established through Y-STR profiling. However, in cases where the defendant lives in the same dwelling as the complainant, the defendant may argue that his DNA was transferred through normal social contact, and dispute that intimate contact occurred. This study aimed to determine whether or not male DNA could be detected in samples collected from the vaginal cavity after everyday activities. A total of 300 samples from eight individuals were subjected to DNA quantification and Y-STR amplification.

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